UPCOMING EVENTS

Today on October 16th, 2015. Snowy went onto Rainbow Bridge, her wings opened and she took off to start her next journey, she will wait patiently to meet Trish and all her friends there at the Bridge, she will be missed. Our hearts are heavy but it is the memories that will lift them all to new heights. Forever young, forever white, she will always be Trish's shining light at night. Snowy will be missed and never forgotten. Goodbye our Dear Friend.

I have always been blessed with the most incredible relationships with the animals in my life. As a group, they taught me myriad truths. Individually, each showed me something special about the traits I possessed, but could not bring to the surface without their help. This is true of all of the wonderful animals I've had the privilege of working with - but particularly true of those with whom I shared my life and my home.

In honor of that special relationship shared by a human and companion animal, in this section I will introduce you to some remarkable people with whom I had the pleasure of working, as they sought to improve and enhance their relationships with their own dog partners...

Last year, I received a phone call from an older woman, named Trish, living in the Catskill Mountains. Trish was 78 years young, unable to drive, and had limitations with walking and using her hands. Her American Eskimo, Snowy, had been by her side since three months of age; and was having problems with submissive peeing and fearfulness. We spoke on the telephone and scheduled an appointment; and that's when our journey began.

Once I was introduced to Snowy and Trish in person, and saw their home-bound world, I made my assessment: Snowy suffers from fear
aggression; Trish has physical and mobility restrictions, uses a walker-chair, has braces on her legs, and terribly arthritic hands. From that first meeting, the goal was to develop behavioral modification for Snowy's entire way of life, while incorporating familiarity with all of Trish's medical equipment and limitations. As we progressed, we began to reintroduce Snowy back into a world that was safe, and to increase and build Snowy's confidence in herself.

Confidence is very hard to build in dogs who suffer from fear, so we wanted to find something that Snowy naturally does on her own, and then build on that talent. While talking with Trish at her table one day, we noticed Snowy was spinning on her hind legs in the air. I realized that this was it! Freestyle Dancing...

We knew that we had a tough road ahead of us. It would involve Snowy's ability to overcome all her fears of change, noise, new equipment; but from the very beginning, I could tell that Trish and Snowy were determined to become partners; in life and in dance.

That was a year ago. We are still working with Snowy; but many things have already changed for her. The submissive peeing has stopped; Snowy is allowing others into her world and surroundings at home; and she has made new friends among humans, and other dogs. We have
steadily been bringing both Trish and Snowy out and about, away from their house. And while we still have a long way to go, I firmly believe that the power of the Human-Animal Bond will heal all in time.

2011 UPDATE TRISHA and SNOWY
HURRICANE IRENE

On August 28, 2011, Upstate New York was hit with one of the worst hurricanes to come inland. Trish and Snowy live in Prattsville, NY. Prattsville was wiped off the map after this hurricane. The devastation and loss for all was horrific. As the water worked it's way up to Trish's house, evacuation was esstential for both Snowy and Trisha. Emergency crews worked as quickly as they could to get all in danger to shelter and higher grounds. This is when Trisha saw that Snowy was truely a Service Dog for her. Staying by her side and comforting Trish with her presence. Trish wanted to share with you part of her service routines that she performs for Trish. Here are examples of the service that she provides for Trish. Trish teaching Snowy many things that she can do for her as needed.

Snowy Picks Up Her Toys

Snowy Getting Trish The Phone

Bring Mommy Her Walker

2010 UPDATE TRISH and SNOWY

Trish is turning 81 years young this year, and Snowy is 4 years old. I have seen the two of them become a remarkable pair in both of them dealing with their very own special limitations. Trish amazing in her ability to understand that behavior modification is a lifelong commitment with remarkable results when following through and understanding that change comes with time and patience, and obtaining the knowledge to help make these changes.

Snowy has shown through her intelligence that she can learn and overcome fears that she faces on a daily basis. Snowy this year has passed her Canine Good Citizen Test ( a very hard feat in itself ), due to the fact that they are very limited to , socialization, outside of their home environment. I do not see them enough, but I have seen the sensational results. Snowy we have taught her to become a service dog for Trisha with the skill of retrieving the phone for her, she also picks up her own toys and returns them into a basket. Continuation of Snowy's Freestyle Dancing is moving forward with a new twist of Trisha sitting in her walker chair.

We have added a Treadmill into Snowy's exercise program for those days that its hard to practice their freestyle. Snowy adapted to it magically and can do a full 20 minutes on it by herself, willing jumping on to go for a run.

Changes come with age, but Life never stops, and the willingness to learn to adapt is there for the taking. I am very proud to be part of their lives !!!!!!!!!

Trish & Snowy February 2015

Four years have passed since I have written about Trish & Snowy a lot has happened. As we all get older things that we were able to do on a regular basis gets harder and more strenuous to do. Trish is now going on 86 years and Snowy is now approaching 10 years of age. The bond between the two of them is forever growing, adapting, and evolving together to care for the needs of one another especially the need of Love. Trish has a harder time getting around, she is not as mobile as she used to be, and Snowy has her ups and downs also, but together they get through the rough times. Freestyle has changed to the game of "What can you do for me", with Snowy going through various Freestyle moves. The one and most important part of this great team is their bond and love for one another. We might not be able to do everything we used to do but that is the wonderful part of growing old with someone who accepts you for who you are. Forever Trish & Snowy !!!!!!!!!!!!

New Beginnings
The Fab Three

Cha Cha: The Luminous Spirit
10 year old Whoodle

Meet Cha Cha Catori (Spirit), Born September 7, 2007, saved from a Puppy Mill in Kansas. She just joined our family on Feb. 28, 2008.

Cha Cha is beginning to teach me to be adaptable, learn from others,capture the moment, and there is truly wonder and excitement in everyday.

Thumper: A Collective Old Soul

Rescue MiniGolden Doodle. Born 4/27/18 had a very rough start with a dislocated elbow needed surgical open reduction.

He is a loving cheerful boy who loves life no matter what is thrown at him!

Rufio: A curious, courageous, smart, risk taking boy

Mini Golden Doodle. Born 6/27/18 The lost boy who found his way to home!

These are all rescues.

No Longer Physically Present but I feel you and know you are watching over us.
We grew&loved together, and will be with each other forever!
We shall meet again, Love & Miss you.

Ellis: The Survivo
14 Year Old Golden Retriever

Ellis came to me at the age of 2 weeks old. He was the tiniest out of the litter, refused to suckle, and only weighed 1.3lbs. Diagnosed with SubAortic Stenosis, was suppose to die around the age of 2 years. Miracles do happen! This dog is human!

Ellis has taught me to be nonjudgmental, keep an open mind, and a open heart. This is the true art of survival!

In Loving Memory May 28, 1999- May 31, 2013

When your eyes opened I was there, when your eyes closed 14 years later I was there, we will be together forever, I will wait for your return. You have been and always will be my dog-son

Love you, Mom

Jack: The Labrasaurus
15 Year Old Yellow Lab

Came to me as the last hope of saving him, at 3 1/2 months he was a fear aggressive bitter, destined to be euthanized. At 1 year of age this dog is a "Star"! He has no more aggression problems, he excels in obedience, agility, and freestyle dancing. He has a tremendous zest for life and people!

Jack has taught me to conquer my fears, get over it, and the world is yours!

In Loving Memory February 26 2003 - April 7 2018

15 years you laid by my side, each night providing us comfort with one another. We conquered fears together, learned from each other but most of all we loved one another. Sending you all my love, waiting for when we meet again! My Labrasaurus!!!!!!

Orso: The Whimsical Companion
11 year old Chollie

Meet Orso, Born December 16, 2006, saved from a kill shelter in Georgia, he is a Teddy Bear with attitude, smart, quick to learn, with a big appetite for love, and learning!

In Loving Memory: December 12, 2006 - June 5, 2018

Orso you challenged me, but you taught me. I lost the battle of protecting you at the end. My life has changed forever and you made that happen. Run free with all the others. Love you and miss you my son!

Lauralie: The Diva
9 Year Old Golden Retriever

Spent her first 5 years in a breeders kennel. Socialized with only one other dog. She had a hard time at first meeting new dogs, but she has no issues now at all, in fact she raised and mentored Jack!

Diva has taught me to love freely, even if love is not returned, do not miss the chance to express it.

In Loving Memory: November 21st 1998 - November 20th 2008

An angel of Golden threads walked this earth with me. Her wings laid quietly by her side. Her love touched many hearts and souls. Our time was short but the love we shared will never wither Her wings opened and she was gone forever She will be forever in my heart, body, and soul. My Diva.

Butchie: The Carpet
11 Year Old Chow-Chow

Spent his first 6 months as a boarder in our clinic, socialized everyday with clients, other dogs, and cats. The owner finally let me take him home for good! Best therapy chow around!

Butchie has taught me to be silent, observe, and listen, the true essence of leadership.

In Loving Memory
May 22, 1996-August 24, 2007

Before, I went to bed last night, I knew in my heart it would be the last time that Butchie would watch over me. His honor and love for me was incredible, a deep emotional silent bond. He came into the bedroom and positioned himself by the door for the last time. He died in my arms on the grass, as the sun rose, a last gift of love he has given me. He is now at peace with all his friends, and will wait for me to join him again. He will forever walk at my side, even though his physical presence is gone. He is running free now, with all my love with him.

Ellis the Survivor 2009

Jack the Labrasaurus - 2009

Cha-Cha The Luminous Spirit - 2009

The Center is located on 385 Foxhall Avenue in Kingston, N.Y. A 9,000 square foot facility, fully matted for the comfort of both you the handler, and your K-9 companion. Easy access, plenty of parking!

The total training facility for your dog's behavior, inside and outside the house!

I am , a life-long resident of the Hudson Valley area, after retiring from veterinarian medicine, I opened my own canine training facility near to my home in Dutchess County: Doc's K9 Obedience, Behavior and Agility Training Center, with locations in Kingston and Red Hook, New York.

In addition to teaching over twenty structured behavior, obedience, and agility classes per week, I also work intensively with the Canine Good Citizens Program and hold numerous private lessons throughout the Hudson Valley and surrounding area in canine behavior modification, interactive free-style dance, canine therapy, and the rehabilitation of rescue animals. In addition to my diverse class and appointment schedule, I am also on staff at Ulster Community College, teaching courses in Animal Behavior.

â€œMy pets were always a key part of my life. At the age of 12, when I was severely injured after being hit by a drunk driver, the study of Animal Behavior became an important aspect of my life and my education. Despite my difficult injuries, I was immediately aware of the fact that my pets were nonjudgmental, and actually changed all their behaviors intuitively, to compensate for the effects of my personal tragedy. At this young age, I realized that when I simply silenced myself, and listened quietly, I could whisper to my animals, and they would whisper too.

Because I benefited from my pets and their ability to aid me back to good health and well being, I realized that I had to give something back to them, and chose the path to become a Veterinarian. Veterinary Medicine was a very rewarding career; however, following the passing of very significant people in my life, and in my medical practice, I made the decision to retire from Veterinary care, and open Doc's K9 Center.

As an Animal Behavior Specialist, I am affiliated with many areas of professional study: animal behavior, obedience, agility, safety, private consultations, therapy, and rescue rehabilitation. I am also very personally committed to rescue work. All of my own dogs are rescues, and all of them work with me on a daily basis in classes and consultations.

My biggest goal is to educate the public that dogs are social creatures that we have domesticated into our homes, lives, and family; however,
we must remember that they are 4-legged and not 2-legged, and their social structure differs from that of human social structure. I firmly
believe that animals give us so much â€“ and are so often taken for granted. We have an obligation to learn from their love, and flourish
from their devotion. People who have no place for an animal in their heart have not found truly unconditional love.â€�

My training classes provide you with a sense of dog savvy and the knowledge to build a strong everlasting bond between you and your pet.

My staff consists of all of rescue dogs who have become an important part in the development of socialization skills amongst dogs.

My human staff are multiple trainers of all agility levels, from basic fun agility with you, and your dog, to competition level. Once we have decided to get a puppy or an older dog it is our responsibility as pet owners to provide them with a strong background of obedience, proper behavior, and socialization.

We must remember that an obedient dog who is well socialized is accepted and loved by all.

Dr. Karen

My name is Orso and I am 4 years old. Here is my story:

I was found in a dumpster, along with my brother, at a very young age. I fought hard for my resources, especially food. My main objective was to survive. I even fought with my brother. I became an extreme resource guarder, not just with strange dogs, but also within my pack.

Eventually, we were found, fed and received veterinary care. Someone saw our photos on an internet pet adoption site and forwarded my photo/bio to Mom. Mom opened the email and immediately heard me call to her, â€œYou have been chosen to help me. Please come for me!â€� Within a week, after all adoption polices were met, she came to fetch me up.

At first, I was a little humble to meet her, but it did not take long for me to show her what I was all about. I went right into puppy classes at 10 weeks of age. For the first two weeks, I tolerated the other puppies, as well as the adult dogs in my pack, but then I could not control myself.

I believed that everything should be MINE! Food, toys, beds, Mom's affection - it should all be mine. I could not control my inner rage. IT SHOULD ALL BE MINE! I felt like I wanted to kill everyone around me who was getting a treat, so Mom pulled me out of puppy classes. My world started to crumble around me, but Mom learned that she had to modify things in order to protect everyone in the pack.

I did not play with the adult dogs of my pack at all. Mom knew that she would have to find a playmate that would play with me, and in turn, that playing would help me to get beyond my issues. That playmate is Cha Cha. She came all the way from Kansas and she has special talents as a healer among both dogs and people.

Changes came very slowly, as everyone learned how to adapt and modify their behavior. They came to recognize the triggers that would set me off.

One day, something really scary happened. Cha Cha and I were playing in the back yard. Mom was diligent about watching all interactions, but natured called and she left for a couple of minutes. We were out in the yard playing as rough as we always did - being terrier mixes. Like we had done many times before, we were grabbing each other collars and flipping each other around. I loved to flip Cha Cha, but this time I flipped her too many times and her jaw got caught in my collar. As I flipped her around, the collar got tighter and tighter. Suddenly, I could not breathe because the collar had become so tight that it cut off my air supply. Cha Cha's jaw was stuck in my collar and I was choking. My heart stopped and I turned purple.

Mom came running out when she saw both of us lying on the ground, facing each other and seemingly lifeless. She was unable to release Cha Cha's jaw because the collar had twisted so tightly that she couldn't get her fingers under it enough to loosen it. She quickly called her brother-in-law, who was there in a flash with leather snips.

He managed to unravel us, took Cha Cha inside and Mom got to work. There was no heartbeat. Nor was there airflow, so Mom, being a veterinarian, knew to perform CPR. It took awhile, but I made it back. I was under and out for quite a long time, but apparently, miracles do happen. I passed through - but then I returned. I guess it was not yet my time to go.

The experience changed my life. I still had far to go, but things after that encounter, things were different. Mom continued to work with me, along with my pack mates, using alternative methods to help make me whole â€“ in an effort to help me to become a dog! Indeed, I have changed. Now I play with the adults and it's okay if they touch my toys. I don't even mind it when Mom gives them treats and shows them affection. I love when she tells me how proud she is of me, and when she cries tears of joy when she sees how happy I am with life, in general. Mom says I am a work in progress and that we will continue to deal with my issues of lack of socialization and trust of people.

There are a few friends and family who I do love, but I'm still not quite sure of the rest of the world. My philosophy is to believe, to learn and to deal with whatever comes my way, but most of all to seek out help. Mom says that resource guarding is a hard behavioral issue to break, especially if a dog resource guards with people. (And I believe her because she's a doctor and she's really smart!) My life is forever evolving, and behavior modification is a lifetime commitment not just for me, but for my Mom and my pack members, as well.

My name is Orso, I am 4 years old and I am becoming a dog!

I am Orso and I am now 8 years of age and finally have become a dog. Each year of my life, I have evolved, learned, and grown into a dog that is more comfortable with life and is able to handle difficult situations. I have learned actually to modify my behavior to make decisions that will keep me from loosing control by pulling myself away from a situation which may become ugly. I cuddle more with Mom, I play well with my pack members, I even sleep on the bed now with all the others. Mom is very much aware of all these changes and really watches for any triggers that might upset me, but now I can walk away to a safe area to diffuse. I finally feel part of the pack. Thank you for becoming a dog.

Orso is special, I have never seen a dog that can truly process a very difficult situation, he has learned how to control himself, and how to deal with his temper, and has learned how to walk away.

His pictures now show you his transformation through his face, he is Finally Happy !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Orso left me this year 2018, suffering from kidney failure. He left me heart broken because I could not protect him from this. We learned, we suffered, had good and bad times but the one thing we all learned how to do was to LOVE!!!

Proud to Announce September 2018

Sandy and Palmer's
Achievements

One of our own Doc's K9 Center students

She is a 3 year old lab, certified Therapy Dog with TDI
(Therapy Dogs International)

She has been doing Therapy work in two Nursing Homes and at the Albany Airport for two years.

She qualified with HOPE, a National Origination, in June 2018 to provide Animal-Assisted Crisis Response.

She was invited by the Office of the Medical Examiner of New York City to participate with other Hope Teams, at the World Trade Center Events on 9/11/2018.

She was at Ground Zero at the Reflection Pools and the Museum to provide comfort and support to the families of the 9/11 Victims and the First Responders.

Thank you Sandy and Palmer for the comfort and love you give to those in need.

Have you ever considered that you and your dog might have something to give back to others that they do not have, when they need a reminder that someone cares. Your dog offering his or her paw to someone, who is sick in the hospital or in a nursing home, will help the person to feel a healing power when petting a dog. Your dog lying down amongst a group of children that are reading, will give them the courage to express themselves and read the book aloud.

Many never take the time to notice the healing powers that dogs have to offer in their own unique way. When a dog enters a room they have the opportunity to change moods, attitudes, opinions, and the overall well being of individuals. Many dogs need not do anything but be present in a room and magic happens. People speak to dogs through their body language and animals have learned how to interpret what they are saying to them, even if there are never any words muttered.

Once the Dog hunted with man, now the Dog Heals with Man, They will walk beside us, always!

What makes a Good Therapy Dog?

A dog that has been properly socialized, calm, gentle, and receptive to training. A dog that is friendly, non-aggressive, and confident in new surroundings and new situations. A social dog that is friendly with children and people of all ages, sizes, and color. The dog that, also, gets along with other animals.

The most important is their ability to work with new people and respond to their needs. All breeds and sizes of dogs are eligible; Certain ages are accepted for certain foundations.

What makes a Good Therapy Dog Team?

Understanding your dog and realizing what type of Therapy Work would be best for you and your dog. There are a number of different venues to consider: reading groups with youths, hospitals, nursing homes, hospice, youth groups. Be aware of the things your dog is attracted to and the things that he is least attractive to. Some dogs favor children over older people or vice o versa. But you need to be conscious of how your dog particularly reacts to others.

Dedication of the handler, putting the dog through basic training and Therapy Dog Classes and Certification is the winning combo for a Great Dog Handler Therapy Team.

Here are some Teams that have gone through Obedience and Therapy Classes and are certified with Therapy Dogs International.

Remember even if you cannot Pay Forward through monetary means you can Pay Forward through the Love that your Dog will give to someone in need.

Dr. Karen

From the Daily Freeman
April 3, 2005
by Jonathan Ment

Doc's K-9 Obedience, Behavior, Agility and Training:

Run by Karen Garelick, a retired veterinarian, the business opened at 22 Thomas St. in Kingston in October 2004.

Garelick said she grew weary of the 24-hour, seven-days-a-week nature of her practice and took a year off before opening Doc's in Kingston.

"I opened because my clients demanded it," she said. "They wanted an indoor arena for winter."

Garelick continues to conduct private sessions for behavioral consultations and covers a lot of ground between New York City and Albany. She works with everyone from with younger children to older adults, but in the agility and obedience arena, a lot of 40-somethings bring dogs in for training, she said.

"We have brought animals into our home. They're family members. (But) people have to remember that they still, number one, are animals," Garelick said. "People have to remember that they live in a pack mentality. They're incorporated into our daily lives. We have to adapt to their ways so they can live naturally in our lives and homes.

"I think it's more of getting back into the family unit situation," she said. "It's becoming a basic part of our animals to incorporate animals. They teach us compassion, responsibility and develop relationships later in our lives. You become a caretaker for an animal. You're responsible for an animal's life. ... I love to see a progression of obedience and bond that gets stronger and stronger."

KINGSTON was an easy choice for Garelick. She said she has many friends in the city and has been training privately in the area, and there really was no place in Red Hook, her area of Dutchess, where she could house the facility.

The 3,000-square-foot, fully matted center in Kingston is used for animal training and agility, obedience and freestyle work - what Garelick describes as "basically having fun with your dog all the way around."

"What we do with obedience is add structure to their lives," she said. "Animals, especially dogs, require structure. If they don't have structure, they start to do bad things and look for attention."

Garelick works with more than 100 dogs per week. She also works the owners of other animal-oriented businesses, such as Canine Country Club's Sarah Muir, who is teaching some of her dogs to "dance."

.

Photos provided by the Daily Freeman

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WHAT'S UP, DOC? Retired veterinarian turns to training dogs and their owners (video)
April 23, 2012
from the Daily Freeman

KINGSTON, N.Y. — Retired veterinarian Karen Garelick said she became interested in animal behavior after she was in an automobile accident involving a drunken driver when she was 12.

Following the accident, Garelick was in a coma for two weeks. When she came out of that state, she said, she noticed the animals around her changing themselves to acclimate to her needs and to how she was feeling.

“They were my mainstay because they allowed me to come back into the world,” Garelick said, adding that the animals made her who she is today.

Today, Garelick owns and operates Doc’s K9 Center on Foxhall Avenue in Kingston where she teaches obedience and agility courses for dogs and their owners. She also does therapy work and trains dogs to handle working in a therapy environment where they will be exposed to things they might not normally encounter. Garelick said she also works with dogs that have behavioral issues.

Garelick said she has a talent for working with animals and that talent can be seen even among her own dogs.

Jack, an 8-year-old yellow lab, also affectionately known as a “labrasauras,” was supposed to be euthanized when he was three and a half months old, Garelick said. She said Jack had fear aggression biting, especially with children. The problem, Garelick said, was poor husbandry. She said he was taken from his litter two weeks early at the age of six weeks and went to a family that was overly loving.

That family was constantly “on top” of Jack, hugging him and holding him, Garelick said. She said Jack was scared to death and did not want that. He would try to hide and when the family members went to grab him again, he would bite.

“So, I fixed him up,” Garelick said. “He’s fine. He loves kids.” Jack is one of Garelick’s four dogs, all of whom are rescues. She said he is the one who showed her that fear can be conquered in the proper way.

During a recent visit, Garelick demonstrated the agility and obedience training she teaches. She had Jack navigate some jumps, weave poles and other obstacles on an indoor agility course, rewarding him with treats upon completion of his tasks. Garelick then had Jack demonstrate some obedience training, including responding to commands that had him walk side to side and in a circle around her.

Jack also showed off his skills in a game Garelick likes to play in which she asks the dog what they can do. In that game, Garelick asked Jack, “What can you do?” He then responded by doing a trick, such as sitting and spinning in a circle. He was rewarded with praise and treats.

Garelick said the game allows a dog to think for himself.

“Behavioral issues and problems can be resolved if done in the proper way,” Garelick said. “And also, people have to understand, it’s a lifetime commitment.” She said it is not just a one-time resolution to an issue. It’s something that has to be modified throughout the animal’s life, Garelick said.

Garelick said she has dealt with a lot of problem dogs. The biggest problem dog she experienced was her own half bearded collie, half chow dog, Orso, she said. Garelick said Orso was a resource guarder among his pack.

“It took me four years to get him where he is now,” Garelick said. “And he’s a dog now. He’s literally a dog. Before it was like a killing machine. It was terrible.”

At one point, Orso and another of Garelick’s dogs, Cha Cha, got themselves so tangled up that Orso’s collar ended up wrapped tight around his neck, causing him to stop breathing. Garelick said Orso died until she could bring him back. From that point, it seemed like Orso had “seen the light” and his behavior began to change in a positive way, Garelick said. She said it has been a long haul with Orso, but it has been worth it to see an animal with such rage become a dog that is fine with his pack.

Cha Cha, a half wheaten terrier and half poodle, was born in a puppy mill and was found in a pool of blood by a foster family who took her in. Garelick said she got Cha Cha when she was 5 months old. Cha Cha, she said, has talents as a healer among other dogs and humans.

Garelick’s other dog, Ellis, is a 12-year-old golden lab that she refers to as the ambassador.

“He’s non-judgmental,” Garelick said of Ellis. She said he helps her tremendously in understanding other dogs and the make-up of their personalities. Garelick said she has had Ellis since he was 2 weeks old.

Garelick said her training methods are very positive. She said she uses a lot of treats and positive reinforcement, but she also allows dogs to understand what is right and wrong in a good way. Garelick said people also have to be consistent in the way they treat their dogs.
“A lot of people just don’t understand what a dog is all about,” Garelick said. She said dogs need socialization and need to have more friends with four legs than those with two legs. Garelick added that socialization is key for puppies and that puppies need to be exposed to a lot of different stimuli at a young age.

“I’m such an advocate on these kinds of things,” Garelick said. She said puppies need to be exposed to everything and need to be trained.

Garelick said she is also an advocate of keeping people with their dogs.

In the future, Garelick plans to expand her facility, which is the old Roberti Saab building. She said she plans to add a doggie daycare and to put an apartment in the facility. Garelick said she also wants to start a dating service for dog owners.

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My goal with this school is to make everyone aware of how important it is to build a strong bond with your pet, and to educate all about the interactions of pets, family members, strangers, and other animals. Our pets are our family members, but we must remember that they are animals that we have domesticated, and need to be understood on both levels of existence in our lives. Harmony begins with understanding, not expecting!

On May 16, 2008, I was invited to do a Talk Show on the Radio called "Dog Ears". The program "Dog Ears", was broadcasted on three local AM stations of the Hudson Valley; WLNA 1420 , WBNR 1260, and WGHQ 920, all stations owned by Pamal Broadcasting. "Dog Ears" hosted by Richard Tirendi who is a dog groomer in veterinarian hospitals in the Hudson Valley. Our topic for the show, was early "Puppy Socialization", which is important in a pups well being and behavioral health throughout the rest of its life.

An average dog owner should be aware that it is crucial in the pups early development to be socialized at an early age in a controlled environment, such as Puppy Kindergarten. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior has issued their statement about early socialization outweighing not having all the vaccines into a pup before going into controlled classes. Your bond with your pet begins as soon as he or she arrives home, we are responsible for the health, well being and behavior of our pets. Please review the following statement:

AVSAB Position Paper on Puppy Socialization

The primary and most important time for puppy socialization is the first three months of life.1, 2 During this time puppies should be exposed to as many new people, animals, stimuli and environments as can be achieved safely and without overstimulation. For this reason, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior believes that it should be the standard of care for puppies to receive such socialization before they are fully vaccinated.

Because the first three months are the period when sociability outweighs fear, this is the primary window of opportunity for puppies to adapt to new people, animals, and experiences. Incomplete or improper socialization during this important time can increase the risk of behavioral problems later in life including fear, avoidance, and/or aggression. Behavioral problems are the greatest threat to the owner-dog bond. In fact, behavioral problems are the number one cause of relinquishment to shelters.3 Behavioral issues, not infectious diseases, are the number one cause of death for dogs under

While puppies' immune systems are still developing during these early months, the combination of maternal immunity, primary vaccination, and appropriate care makes the risk of infection relatively small compared to the chance of death from a behavior problem.

Veterinarians specializing in behavior recommend that owners take advantage of every safe opportunity to expose young puppies to the great variety of stimuli that they will experience in their lives. Enrolling in puppy classes prior to three months of age can be an excellent means of improving training, strengthening the human-animal bond, and socializing puppies in an environment where risk of illness can be minimized.

The Process of Socialization:
Puppies should be handled from birth, learning to accept manipulation of all body parts. Every effort should be made to expose them to as many different people, well-socialized animals, situations, places, etc. as possible. Puppies should be encouraged to explore, investigate, and manipulate their environments. Interactive toys and games, a variety of surfaces, tunnels, steps, chutes, and other stimuli can enrich the puppy's environment. Puppies should accompany
their breeders/owners on as many car trips as possible. These exposures should continue into adulthood to maintain an outgoing and
sociable dog.

Puppy socialization classes can offer a safe and organized means of socializing puppies and more quickly improve their responsiveness to commands.4 Each puppy should have up-to-date vaccinations and be disease and parasite free before entering the class. Where possible, classes should be held on surfaces that are easily cleaned and disinfected (e.g. indoor environments) . Visits to dog parks or other areas that are not sanitized and/or are highly trafficked by dogs of
unknown vaccination or disease status should be avoided.

Classes and at-home training should be based on positive reinforcement with frequent rewards â€“ praise, petting, play and/or treats. Positive and consistent training is associated with fewer behavioral problems and greater obedience than methods that involve punishment and/or encourage human dominance.4, 5,6

Time must be scheduled for puppies to play alone with their favorite toys (such as stuffed food toys) or take naps in safe places such as crates or puppy pens. This teaches puppies to amuse themselves, and may help to prevent problems of over attachment to the owners. Continuing to offer dogs a wide variety of experiences during their first year of life is also helpful in preventing separation-related behavior.

Proper confinement training using pens or crates helps to ensure that puppies have safe and secure places for rest and confinement. Puppies that are used to being crated will be less stressed if they must be hospitalized or be confined for travel by plane or car. Crates should serve as comfort or play areas.

Early and adequate socialization and programs of positive training can go a long way to preventing behavior problems and improving bonding between humans and dogs. While the first three months is the most important socialization period in a puppy's life, owners of puppies that have passed this milestone are strongly encouraged to continue to socialize their puppies to as many people, pets, and locations as is practical

Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dog Class: Getting your dog prepapred to become a Good Citizen and Therapy dog, testing done at the end of the course. Prepare your dogto do hospital visits, reading programs, etc....

Trick Class: Fun for everyone, learn tricks to entertain when visiting doing therapy work, or just having fun with your dog.

Orientation is the first day of classes for Puppy Kindergarten and Basic Obedience only this is a mandatory class without dogs, classes with dogs assume the second week of the course.

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This is a letter that all Puppy Kindergarten Graduates receive on Graduation Day, I wanted to share it with you. Through your love and understanding you will walk by each other's side!

You now have a solid foundation for the success of building a strong ever lasting bond between you and your puppy. Continuation of learning and practicing on a daily basis will achieve a wonderful well mannered pet.

Remember what we think we are doing right at times, may influence the negative behaviors in our dogs. People say we are nothing without a good dog by our side, I have a tendency to agree. Animals bring a wealth of love, understanding, and compassion to our daily lives. The little solidarity'of expression, and acts brings us hours of joy, and soothes us with a calmness. Am I a little eccentric, I dare say so, but I am well aware of the offerings that our pets can bring to us. They are significant in our health, lowering blood pressure, they are used in physical therapy, used in communicating with those that have decided to close themselves off from society. Dogs have become a very important part of our family lives, and we must remember that we have to understand their instinctive nature and learn to incorporate into our family lives. We domesticated them, but we need to understand them.

Obedience of your puppy goes way beyond the simple commands that we have them follow. A structural hierarchy and a knowledge of pack mentality and the instinctive skills that your particular breed of dog has ,is well worth its weight in gold.

It is important to follow through with your obedience learning, and practicing. Do not loose faith that it is a slow process. This is a learning experience for both of you. An animals means of learning is through you, the more time you put into it, the more each of you will learn. We are all a product of outcome, be responsible for your outcome of your pup.

Remember Train Them, Don’t Blame Them.

If you are considering getting a dog, always consider a Rescue! My Staff if you noticed are all Rescue Animals. Each of them possess hidden talents of love and devotion to me, and all they meet. The power of bonding with a rescue dog is remarkable. All my dogs work with me in classes, and in private consultations. Their devotion, trust, and understanding, allows me to help other dogs. All dogs deserve a chance for a good home, consider adopting one today!

Photography what a better way to capture your dog's true essence!
Still or action shots, I recommend Barry Rosen, visit his photo galleries at barryrosen.com

From time to time, people tell me, "lighten up, it's just a dog," or, "that's a lot of money for just a dog." They don't understand the
distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs involved for "just a dog." Some of my proudest moments have come about with "just a dog."
Many hours have passed and my only company was "just a dog," but I did not once feel slighted.

Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by "just a dog," and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of "just a dog" gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day. If you, too, think it's "just a dog," then you will probably understand phrases like "just a friend," "just a sunrise," or "just a promise.""Just a dog" brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy. "Just a dog" brings out the compassion and patience that make me a better person. Because of "just a dog" I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future.

So for me and folks like me, it's not "just a dog" but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past,
and the pure joy of the moment. "Just a dog" brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of
the day.

I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just a dog" but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being "just a person." So the next time you hear the phrase "just a dog." just smile, because they "just don't understand."

-- Author Unknown

Seminars: Dogs, Kids, & Safety: A Safety Program brought into the Elementary Schools, daycares, etc.... Live demonstrations with the dogs, teaching children proper etique and safety around dogs.

Our first day back to school
Respect and Love is a two way street!

Seminar with Kawansis children of Newburgh ,Demonstration in April of 2009, Cha-Cha at her best!!!!

Agility Demos: Having a Special Event, need a crowd pleaser, available for your special day.

Visit the Beautiful town of Corolla ,North Carolina "The Outer Banks", this house is pet friendly, and 50 yards away from the ocean, the Outerbanks is known to be one of the best Pet Friendly Beaches. I frequently go down with the dogs. Remember to be responsible Pet Owners, this is a real treat for you and your dogs. Pics and availability, just click on the link. http://www.outerbanksblue.com/vacation-rentals/carolinian/CP006